I’m puzzled about my CFA Level 3 results. My study buddy and I did loads of mock exams together. I usually scored higher because I’d studied the material more recently. But when the real results came out, they passed and I didn’t.
I felt pretty good about the exam. I only marked a few questions as unsure. But my score report looks way worse than I expected. Nothing was over 70%. It’s so different from how I thought I did.
Is it possible there was some mix-up in the computer system? Could my answers have gotten switched with someone else’s?
Maybe I’m just being overconfident. But I can’t shake the feeling that something’s not right. Has anyone else ever felt this way about their CFA results?
As someone who’s been through the CFA program, I can understand your frustration. It’s natural to question unexpected results, but errors in the CBT system are extremely rare. The CFA Institute has rigorous quality control measures in place.
Performance in mock exams doesn’t always translate to the real thing. Exam day pressure, different question styles, or simply an off day can impact your score. Also, remember that the passing score isn’t fixed and varies each year based on exam difficulty.
Instead of doubting the system, I’d suggest reviewing your performance objectively. Use the feedback to identify weak areas and improve for your next attempt. Many successful charterholders didn’t pass on their first try. Stay focused, and don’t let this setback discourage you. The CFA journey is challenging, but persistence pays off.
yo man, that sucks about ur results. been there myself. the cbt system is pretty solid tho, errors r super unlikely. mock exams can be deceiving - real deal hits different. maybe exam stress got to u? or the questions were trickier than expected? don’t beat urself up, loads of folks need a few tries. take some time to chill then hit the books again. u got this bro!
Hey there, fellow CFA warrior! 
Man, I totally get where you’re coming from. That feeling when you walk out of the exam thinking you crushed it, only to get results that make you go ‘wait, what??’ It’s a real gut punch, isn’t it?
But here’s the thing - as much as we’d love to blame a computer glitch (wouldn’t that be nice?), it’s probably not the case. The CFA folks are pretty hardcore about their tech.
Have you ever noticed how sometimes you can ace practice tests but then freeze up on the real deal? Exam day jitters are no joke. Plus, those sneaky test makers have a way of wording questions that can trip up even the most prepared candidates.
I’m curious - did you use the same study materials as your buddy? Sometimes different prep courses can make a big difference. Also, how did you feel about the AM portion vs the PM? That essay part can be a real wildcard.
Don’t let this get you down though. Loads of people don’t pass on their first go. Heck, some of the sharpest financial minds I know took a couple tries. You’ve got this! Maybe take a breather, then dive back in with fresh eyes? Who knows, this might just be the setback that leads to your biggest comeback. 
What’s your game plan moving forward? Thinking of changing up your study strategy?